Academic Fresh Start

A second chance to improve your GPA and move forward.

Academic Fresh Start gives returning students an opportunity to recover from a low GPA after a long absence. This option is available only in specific circumstances and can help you demonstrate your current motivation and ability.

Who is eligible

You may apply for Academic Fresh Start if all of the following are true:

• You have not taken Ozarks Tech coursework (excluding Continuing Education) for at least three consecutive years.
  
• Your cumulative Ozarks Tech GPA before returning is below 2.0.
  
• You have re-enrolled and completed at least 15 credit hours (not pass/fail or audited) with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  

How it works

• Applies only to Ozarks Tech coursework, not transfer credits.
  
• You select a semester and year prior to your three-year absence. Ozarks Tech applies Academic Fresh Start to all coursework before and including that semester.
  
• Courses remain on your transcript but are excluded from your cumulative GPA.
  
• Coursework included in Academic Fresh Start cannot be used to meet degree, certification, or prerequisite requirements.
  
• Academic Fresh Start is granted only once and cannot be reversed.
  

Important to know

• This policy is intended for students who plan to finish a degree at Ozarks Tech and enter the workforce afterwards.
  
• Most colleges and universities do not honor Academic Fresh Start from other schools. If you plan to transfer, excluded grades may still count toward your GPA.
  

How to apply

1. Meet with a College Navigator to discuss eligibility and get an advisor recommendation.
   
2. Complete the Academic Fresh Start form through the Office of the Registrar. Include a written request with:
   
   • How your motivation, attitude, and ability have changed since returning.
     
   • How your previous grades are negatively affecting your goals.
     
   • The semester and year you want Academic Fresh Start to apply.
     
3. The Office of the Registrar will review your request, verify eligibility, and notify you of the decision.